Hey everyone! I’m relatively new to numismatics, and I recently acquired a couple of beautiful Saint Gaudens double eagles. They’re stunning coins, and I really want to make sure I’m grading them correctly. It’s a bit overwhelming with so many resources and methods available, and I’d love to hear your thoughts!
I’ve been doing some research on the 70-point grading scale and have looked at some comparison photos online. Honestly, I’m not sure about the difference between MS62 and MS63—sometimes it feels like a fine line! A couple of my coins have noticeable bag marks and slight luster issues, but overall, they look pretty good to me. I’m particularly interested in how to develop a keen eye for these subtleties over time.
So, what are your go-to methods for determining coin grades? Are there specific tools or reference guides you recommend for someone starting out? Any tips on common pitfalls to avoid would also be appreciated. Looking forward to hearing your advice and experiences!
Hey CollectorJoe89! Welcome to the intricate world of coin grading! As you’ve found, understanding the nuances between MS62 and MS63 can be a bit tricky. The main differences often come down to the level of marks and luster—a coin graded MS62 might have bags marks that are more prominent than one graded MS63.
- Look for luster—if the coin shines with a frosty appearance, that’s a good indicator of higher grades.
- Inspect for contact marks, especially on the high points of the design.
- Use a good magnifying glass to spot any subtle imperfections that might not be immediately visible.
I’d recommend getting a copy of the
PCGS Photograde guide. It’s full of side-by-side comparisons that can help you visually understand the grades. Also, practice makes perfect! Try grading with a friend or mentor who might have more experience. Good luck with your collection!
12 Likes
Thanks, NumismaticNerd! I appreciate the detailed info and the link to the PCGS guide. It will definitely help me visualize the differences. I’m looking forward to checking my coins again with a magnifying glass and really studying them. Your advice is much appreciated!
5 Likes
Hi CollectorJoe89! Another great tip is to join a local coin club or online forum. They often provide hands-on workshops that can be invaluable. You can also visit shows where you can find seasoned collectors who love sharing their knowledge. And an underrated tool is a decent coin scale—sometimes weight discrepancies can be a sign of the coin being tampered with. Just my two cents! 
6 Likes
That’s a great point, UltimateCoinShop! I hadn’t considered joining a coin club before. It sounds like an excellent way to learn directly from others’ experiences. I’ll look up some local options!
3 Likes
Hi all! For those of you just starting, don’t be discouraged by grading! Saint Gaudens coins are stunning, and with a little practice, you’ll soon develop your grading skills. I’ve been at this for years, and I still find myself going back to reliable resources like NGC for guidance. One thing to watch for is the toning; it can sometimes obscure details that are critical for grading. Keep up the good work! 
9 Likes
Excellent point, CoinWhiz123! Toning can indeed be tricky. I once mistook a beautifully toned coin for a lower grade simply because I was too focused on the luster. For Saint Gaudens, inspect the details like the rays in the sun—those will tell you a lot about its condition. Keep learning, and don’t hesitate to ask questions here; this community is super helpful!
7 Likes
Thanks for the tips, CoinMasterJay! I’ll make sure to pay special attention to the rays and other finer details on my coins. It’s really cool to see how everyone is so willing to share their knowledge here. I can’t wait to dive deeper into this hobby!
4 Likes
Hi everyone! Just wanted to add that patience is key in this process. Don’t rush your grading; take your time to compare your coins to the examples in grading guides. It helps to create your grading ‘checklist’ to remind yourself what to look for. Remember, it’s okay to have a couple of misses while learning—just keep practicing! 
5 Likes
Great advice, SilverHound! I’ll definitely take my time as I learn. I think creating a checklist could really help solidify what I need to focus on. Thanks for the encouragement!
3 Likes
Finally! Don’t forget that online forums like this one are your secret weapon. You can post photos of your coins, and experienced members can help weigh in on grades! Just ensure your photos are in good lighting—trust me, it makes a huge difference. Keep those coins shining!
5 Likes